Makem and Spain Brothers — a tradition continues

ROCHESTER — It’s a tradition! Usher in the holiday season with the internationally celebrated Makem and Spain Brothers at the Rochester Opera House on Saturday, Nov. 24 at 8 p.m. (Doors 7 p.m.).

Conor Makem says, “The Opera House concert has become a tradition for us stemming back to the 1980s when my father [Tommy Makem] and a lot of his musical friends started playing a show the weekend just after Thanksgiving. It marks the beginning of the Christmas season for us and it’s something we look forward to every year as the weather starts getting colder.” With extraordinary on stage chemistry, stunning vocal power and mastery of multiple instruments, the Makem and Brothers deliver the ultimate joyous folk music experience.

Conor adds, “We have so much fun throwing in holiday songs at our annual Opera House show that we wanted to make it a bigger part of our year. We’re putting together an official Christmas show that our agents are booking a tour around.”

Born in Drogheda, County Louth, Shane, Conor and Rory Makem continue the lineage of an Irish music dynasty begun by their grandmother Sarah Makem. Now an iconic legend, father Tommy Makem brought Irish music into the international spotlight as he told the stories of the Irish culture through song. Years ago, Michael Spain introduced Irish folk music to the bars and clubs in Manchester, while transferring his love for the songs of Tommy Makem to his sons, Mickey and Liam. Years later, when the Makems met the Spains, the connection was strong. The combined talents of the five brothers are powerful and unmatched in the world today.

Reserve tickets ($22/$20) online at www.rochesteroperahouse.com or call/stop by the box office (603) 335-1992, M/W/F from 10-5 and two hours before the show. Cash bar. Patrons age 17 and under must be accompanied by an adult.